DBI Announces Opening of The Local
Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. (DBI) is proud to announce the grand opening of The Local, an innovative retail incubator, vibrant community gathering space, and downtown visitors center located at 414 N. Main Street (the former Cook’s Cleaners site). Thanks to the collaborative efforts of DBI, the Town of Blacksburg, and additional partners, this project—first imagined in 2015—is ready to open its doors.
An official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 14, at 11:00 AM, followed by a three-day Grand Opening Celebration running October 15 through October 17.
A Platform for Local Commerce, Creativity, and Connection
“The Local is More Than a Storefront”—As stated, this goes beyond the traditional retail store; it serves as a launchpad for emerging entrepreneurs, an inviting gateway for area visitors, and an active center for residents and the broader New River Valley.
In addition to shopping , the facility houses Moon Hollow Coffee, an all-new cafe concept by local favorite Moon Hollow Brewing. Guests can enjoy fresh coffee, espresso beverages, pastries, and bagels prepared daily.
More than a Meeting Place, it’s where entrepreneurs, neighbors, and ideas come together for:
• Hands-on make-and-take experiences and creative workshops
• Rotating pop-ups highlighting emerging brands and regional makers
• Collaborative programming with local businesses, students, and residents
• Public and private event rentals, offering flexible space for meetings, receptions, community gatherings, and celebrations starting in 2027.
“The Local represents an exciting evolution for our downtown core,” said Tracie Hughes, Executive Director of Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. “It is designed not only to lower barriers for small business owners and artisans to thrive, but also to give our community and visitors a welcoming space to gather, collaborate, and celebrate everything that makes Blacksburg special.”
Featured Inaugural Storefront Tenants
The Local’s storefront spaces will debut with a diverse mix of specialty retailers and artisan collectives:
● The SWVA Shop: Dedicated to high-quality, thoughtfully designed merchandise, inspired by the culture, mountains, and traditions of Southwest Virginia. From Virginia Tech licensed apparel, to Blacksburg and SWVA lifestyle themed pieces, this shop creates items that locals, students, and fans are proud to own.
● The Stray Shop: A paw-some spot run by human artist Taylor and inspired by a mischievous crew of rescued cats. Offering original feline-themed art, stickers, pins, and apparel, while directly giving back by donating up to 10% of profits to animals in need.
● Pedestrian: A specialty footwear retailer providing a personalized shopping experience focused on comfort and minimalist movement from brands such as Lems and Merrell, alongside everyday essentials from New Balance and Converse.
● Millei Collective: A lifestyle shoppe with a rotating showcase of Virginia-based craft and design, highlighting artisan pottery, fine leather goods, original art, textiles, hand-poured candles, furniture, and modern industrial home decor.
● Kinfolk: A curated men’s boutique for individuals who value unique style and craftsmanship. The collection features high-quality apparel and distinct lifestyle goods that blend functional comfort with a refined aesthetic.
● Micro Shops: Five revolving spaces showcasing rising regional startups, innovators, and new concepts on dedicated wall displays.
Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. (DBI) is also proud to announce the hiring of Allison Geneser as the Retail Operations Manager for The Local. Geneser, who recently relocated to the New River Valley from Lockhart, Texas, owned and operated a successful gallery and gift shop within Lockhart’s downtown square. Her space actively championed regional makers and served as a downtown anchor by hosting creative workshops and community-driven events. As a member of the DBI team, Allison will direct day-to-day storefront operations, mentor incoming retail cohorts, and manage community programming.
Schedule and Hours
● Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Wednesday, October 14, at 11:00 AM
● Grand Opening Weekend: Thursday, October 15 – Saturday, October 17
● Daily Retail Operating Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
● Cafe Operating Hours:
○ Wednesday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
○ Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
● Location: 414 N. Main Street, Blacksburg, VA 24060
Members of the public, media representatives, students, and regional leaders are invited to attend the opening festivities, meet the resident entrepreneurs, and tour the new facility.
About Downtown Blacksburg, Inc.
Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. (DBI) is an association of merchants, property owners, and community members dedicated to fostering a vibrant, welcoming, and economically
sustainable downtown district. Through signature festivals, small business advocacy, and economic vitality initiatives, DBI actively supports the cultural and commercial
heart of Blacksburg, Virginia.
For more information regarding storefront opportunities, event space reservations,or workshop schedules, visit downtownblacksburg.com and letstalkblacksburg.org/retail or contact Tracie Hughes at (540) 951-0454.
